Everybody knows how important our core is to overall physical health. Similarly, it is important to work on our spiritual core which is the subject of today’s verse from Ephesians 6:14-15:
Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.
At the time this was written, part of a soldier’s armor was a large belt that would have resembled what we would today call a girdle (a manly one, of course). This was a critical piece of equipment designed to protect against damage to the vital organs in the midsection. In spiritual terms, Paul describes this belt as “truth”.
The other piece of equipment in this passage is the breastplate which covered the area from the shoulders to just below the chest. Paul relates the breastplate to righteousness. Combined, these two items would have provided significant protection to the soldier’s entire core.
So when we think of our spiritual core, Paul suggests protecting ourselves with Truth and Righteousness.
Generally speaking, our society isn’t one that takes a strong stand on truth. Even many Christians don’t have a strong core belief system to govern their lives and the decisions they make. All of us can benefit from packing on strength to our core and making ourselves strong and durable for the long haul.
Here are some questions to help us best figure out how to apply this concept in our lives:
1) How would you define “truth” in spiritual terms?
2) What are the primary factors that obscure and complicate society’s understanding of truth?
3) What actions and habits can best help us strengthen our spiritual core?
4) What are the consequences for us and our families if we have a weak spiritual core?
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